U-M med student was shot, Ann Arbor police say

Jul. 26, 2013

Written by

Detroit Free Press Education Writer

The University of Michigan will increase police patrols in the area just off campus where a medical student was shot Wednesday, U-M President Mary Sue Coleman said in a statement Friday.

Paul DeWolf’s body was found about 11:30 a.m. Wednesday in his apartment in the Phi Rho Sigma co-ed medical society house on the 200 block of North Ingalls Street, according to authorities.

An associate sent to check on him made the discovery after DeWolf failed to show up for his scheduled assignment at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs hospital in Ann Arbor.

Police have ruled his death a homicide and said he died from a single gunshot wound. No firearm was found at his residence, and valuables in the house appear to be untouched, Ann Arbor police said.

DeWolf was a third-year medical student and an active-duty second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. He was from Schoolcraft.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Paul’s family, friends and colleagues,” Coleman said in her statement. “He was working and training among a close, nurturing community of healers, and I know they will help each other through this difficult time. They will need the support of the broader campus community in the weeks and months ahead, and we will provide it.

“As the police investigation continues, we are taking all necessary steps to assure the safety of our campus community with an increased police presence in the North Ingalls and the Central Campus areas.”

DeWolf’s brother, 26-year-old Joshua DeWolf of Schoolcraft, said his family was shocked to hear about his brother’s death and is struggling to understand what happened.

“His infectious smile spread to everyone he talked to,” Joshua DeWolf said. “He was a student, a healer, a role model and a lover of life. ... His life came to an end in his prime. He will be missed in the deepest possible way.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Ann Arbor police tip line at 734-794-6939 or tips@a2gov.org. Tipsters can also call Crime Stoppers at 800-SPEAKUP (800-773-2587).